Writing Magazine

Being different

It is estimated that over 286,000 children in the UK (age 0-17) have a learning disability1, and over 1.3 million children have special educational needs2 (14.9% of children). In addition, 10% of children and young people aged 5-16 have a clinically diagnosable mental health condition3. And each of these children has a story to tell.

The good news is that the publishing industry is becoming more proactive about diversity in children’s books, creating opportunities and trying to readdress the balance. It’s absolutely vital that all children have the opportunity to see themselves reflected in stories and books, as they grow up.

Debut author Joseph Elliott is passionate about creating characters who are different,

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